USHL Waterloo Black Hawks

Broncos' Offer Beckons Bade

Published on May 8, 2023 under United States Hockey League (USHL)
Waterloo Black Hawks News Release


Waterloo, Iowa - Zach Bade's hard-hitting style and sizzling wrist shot endeared him to Waterloo Black Hawks fans last winter, while attracting attention from the Western Michigan University hockey program.

Over the weekend, the forward announced via social media that he has committed to playing college hockey for the Broncos. Among the players who finished the season with Waterloo - including affiliates - Bade is now one of 27 Hawks who has revealed his college destination. He is eligible to return for the 2023/24 USHL season.

"Zach showed that he can play with a variety of linemates and make contributions in many different ways," said Black Hawks Head Coach Matt Smaby. "Our staff looks forward to helping Zach continue to develop during another year in Waterloo, as he builds on a very solid first impression in the league."

The then-19-year-old from Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, scored during his first regular season appearance at Young Arena, helping to spur Waterloo to a 5-1 win against the Des Moines Buccaneers on October 30th. Bade went on to record nine goals and nine assists over the course of the season. That included a pair of game-winning goals (New Year's Eve versus the Youngstown Phantoms and January 28th against the Sioux City Musketeers). He also produced a multigoal game against the Dubuque Fighting Saints on February 2nd.

Bade finished the schedule with a cumulative +2 plus/minus differential. He made 52 appearances - missing just two games from October 30th through the end of the regular season - while going on to appear in all three Hawks playoff contests.

Among members of the 2022/23 Black Hawks, forward Connor Brown is also committed to Western Michigan. The Great Lakes State was a popular destination for last season's team. Four other Hawks are committed to either Michigan (Garrett Schifsky) or Michigan State (Owen Baker, Patrick Geary, Gavin O'Connell).

In 2022/23, two former Black Hawks were on the Broncos' roster. Wyatt Schingoethe and Max Sasson each skated as sophomores. Sasson has since signed with the Vancouver Canucks.

Season tickets for the Black Hawks' 2023/24 campaign are on sale now; for more information, contact the Hawks at (319) 232.3444 or visit tickets.waterlooblackhawks.com.

Check out the Waterloo Black Hawks Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



United States Hockey League Stories from May 8, 2023


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central